Minnehaha Kendo Dojo
Kendo in Minneapolis — Traditional Japanese kendo since 1995
New to Kendo? Start here
We accept new beginners any time during January, April, July, and October. You can watch a practice first with no obligation—just show up and watch from the side.
Check the schedule
Thursday (beginners): 5:00–6:00 pm. Saturday (includes beginners): 3:30–5:30 pm. See full schedule.
Sign the online waiver
Fill out the Google Doc Waiver. You do not need to print it out.
Arrive 15 minutes early
Come to Center for Blade Arts, 4744 Chicago Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55407 at least 15 minutes before practice. When you arrive, introduce yourself to anyone in the dojo—we’ll show you where to put your things and get you oriented. Please remove your shoes before entering the dojo floor.
Bring on your first day
What to bring
- $30 for a shinai (bamboo sword)
- $40 for the first month dues
- Gym shorts and t-shirt (or similar athletic wear)
No martial arts or fitness experience needed. We teach everything from the ground up. No long-term contract—start with the first month and see if kendo is for you. Everyone in the dojo was a beginner once.
Common questions
- Do I need to be in shape or have martial arts experience?
- No. All ages and fitness levels welcome (8 and up). We’ll build fundamentals together.
- Can I just watch first?
- Yes. Come watch any practice during January, April, July, or October. Stay as long as you like and ask questions afterward. No obligation to join.
- Do I need to register or sign up before coming?
- No. Just show up any time during January, April, July, or October. Arrive 15 minutes early.
- What if I have an injury or health concern?
- Tell us when you arrive. We can adapt drills or suggest what to try when. If in doubt, email us first.
- Is there parking?
- Street parking is typically available on Chicago Ave. and nearby. We can suggest options if you contact us.
- What do I wear?
- Gym shorts and a t-shirt (or similar athletic wear). You’ll need a shinai ($30) and first month dues ($40); we have the rest.
About Us
Minnehaha Kendo Dojo was started in 1995 by Bob Cochran Sensei. We are the AUSKF-affiliated kendo dojo in the Twin Cities (Minneapolis and St. Paul) and part of the Midwest Kendo Federation. We practice traditional Japanese kendo—the martial art of swordsmanship—and attend tournaments and seminars around the Midwest. We occasionally host guest instructors.
About Kendo
Kendo is the Japanese martial art of swordsmanship using bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu). At Minnehaha Kendo Dojo we focus on strong fundamentals that support all advanced technique, rank advancement, and tournament success. We train hard, train correctly, and have fun while following traditional Japanese etiquette.
Kendo, like all martial arts, builds character, discipline, and confidence.
Instructors
Travis Stronach
Kendo Renshi 6th Dan
Robert Cochran
Kendo Renshi 6th Dan
Jon Berry
Kendo 5th Dan, Jodo 3rd Dan
Join Us
New students
We accept students ages 8 and up. Newcomers are encouraged to watch a practice and ask questions before participating. See our Beginner's Guide for etiquette and what to expect.
Visiting the Twin Cities?
Kendoka from out of town are welcome. Let us know when you plan to visit and any questions you have.
